Senator Markey presses Google to let schools turn off Gemini and AI Overviews without losing Search

Nov 9, 2026
Senator Edward Markey asked Google to let schools disable Gemini and other generative AI features without losing access to Google Search.

Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) said in a press release that he sent Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai a letter asking Google to reverse a policy that blocks Google Search on K-12 student accounts at schools that switch off its AI services, and to let schools disable generative AI services while retaining access to Google Search. The request covers Gemini, AI Overviews, Guided Learning and other AI features on student accounts for kindergarten through grade 12.

Markey asked whether Google can provide standard Search results without its generative AI features. He also requested research, testing and risk assessments concerning the tools' effects on student safety, mental health and learning, including for children under 13.

The letter asks how many schools and districts using Google products currently restrict or prohibit student access to generative AI tools outside Google Search.

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